California, being a melting pot of cultures and a hub of culinary creativity, is known for its diverse food scene. Here are five different cuisines that have been gaining popularity and making their mark in the Golden State, with our recommendations in Southern California for you to try.
Hawaiian food, island flavors are a dream!
With its strong Polynesian roots and multicultural influences, Hawaiian cuisine is gaining popularity beyond the shores of the Aloha State. California has embraced the flavors of Hawaiian cuisine, which includes dishes like poke bowls, plate lunches, and traditional Hawaiian barbecue. These dishes feature fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and a blend of Asian, Pacific Islander, and American culinary traditions, creating a mouthwatering fusion that captures the essence of the islands.
Visit Pacific Poke Co. in San Diego
Pacific Poke loves a badass poke bowl and believes in making everyone feel welcome. Not only do they offer fresh and custom-made poke bowls, they also have local hawaiian desserts like shaved ice with over 20 flavors. Mahalo!
Order Online:
Plan Your Visit:
Visit Pacific Poke Co. on Instagram:
Vegan and Vegetarian options galore!
With the growing interest in plant-based diets, California has become a hotspot for innovative plant-based cuisine. Chefs and restaurants are pushing the boundaries of vegan and vegetarian cooking, using locally sourced ingredients to create flavorful and satisfying dishes. From vegan sushi rolls and plant-based burgers to dairy-free ice creams and artisanal nut cheeses, plant-based cuisine is thriving in California. Here's our Beyond Tasty restaurant recommendation:
Visit Flower Child in Del Mar or Newport Beach
Flower Child is on a mission to serve positively delicious vibes that includes options for everyone - vegan, vegetarian, and meat eaters alike. If you're in the Del Mar area, they are open daily from 11a to 9p.
ORDER ONLINE:
Plan Your Visit:
Follow Flower Child on Instagram:
California Fusion Cuisine is having its moment!
Fusion cuisine blends elements from different culinary traditions, creating innovative and unique flavor combinations. In California, chefs have been experimenting with fusion cuisines such as Mexican-Korean, Japanese-Peruvian, and Indian-Mexican fusion. These innovative mash-ups offer exciting twists on traditional dishes, introducing new flavors and textures that tantalize the taste buds. Here's our Beyond Tasty restaurant recommendation:
Visit Oi Asian Fusion in Barrio Logan or Carmel Mountain Ranch
Oi Asian Fusion states unequivocally that RICE IS LIFE. You can visit them and share your love for all things rice at two locations in San Diego County, one in Barrio Logan and the other in Carmel Mountain Ranch. Daily hours are from 11a to 9p.
ORDER ONLINE:
PLAN YOUR VISIT:
Follow Oi Asian Fusion on Instagram:
We love Filipino food.
While Filipino cuisine has been a part of California's culinary fabric for decades, it has recently gained more recognition and popularity. Filipino dishes are known for their bold flavors, incorporating influences from Chinese, Spanish, and Malay cuisines. From savory adobo and crispy lumpia to hearty sinigang and sweet halo-halo, Filipino cuisine offers a tantalizing mix of flavors that reflect the vibrant culture of the Philippines. Here's our Beyond Tasty restaurant recommendation:
Visit Lutchi and Mary in San Marcos
Lutchi and Mary want to travel back in time to when your mother lovingly prepared old family recipes and served delicious food on her best china. They'll do their best to recreate that magic with their dishes.
Order Online:
Plan Your Visit:
Follow Lutchi and Mary on Instagram:
Inspiring Mediterranean flavors!
Mediterranean cuisine, with its diverse influences and vibrant flavors, has been making waves in California's culinary landscape. From traditional dishes like hummus, falafel, and shawarma to modern interpretations of mediterranean street food, the cuisine is characterized by fresh ingredients, bold spices, and a balance of savory and tangy flavors. mediterranean cuisine offers a unique culinary experience that appeals to both vegetarians and meat lovers alike.
Visit CAVA at any of their 4 Locations in San Diego
CAVA is on a mission to bring heart, health and humanity to food. You can find them all over San Diego where you can experience that feeling-so-cared-for genuine expression of hospitality and warmth.
Order Online:
Plan Your Visit:
Follow CAVA on Instagram:
In California, these non-traditional cuisines are not only celebrated in dedicated restaurants but are also being incorporated into mainstream culinary scenes, offering food enthusiasts a diverse and exciting array of flavors to explore. So, whether you're craving a fusion creation, a plant-based delight, or a taste of international cuisine, California has something to satisfy every palate.
Subscribe to updates for more Beyond Tasty Destination Guides. Cheers!
What are the go-to spots that you love in your city or state? Share them with us in the comments below!
Commentaires